The legislation includes $38.9 billion in discretionary funding for DHS. This is a decrease of $617.6 million below the fiscal year 2013 enacted level and a decrease of $34.9 million compared to the President’s request. This funding level is approximately $981 million above the current, post-sequestration level for DHS as estimated by the Congressional Budget Office.*

“Terrible natural disasters like the tragic tornados in Oklahoma and the Midwest, as well as manmade disasters like the attack on the Boston Marathon, serve as reminders that we must work to protect and preserve our way of life,” Rogers said, “We must always be at the ready, and this bill funds critical programs to keep us that way – including border security efforts, grants for first responders, cyber security protection, disaster relief, and many other important programs to keep our communities and our country safe,” Rogers continued.

“This bill demonstrates how we can fund vital security programs while also reducing discretionary spending overall. We have prioritized essential security programs, including front-line operations, while streamlining other areas to get the most out of each and every taxpayer dollar," Homeland Security Subcommittee Chairman John Carter said.

The following amendments to the fiscal year 2014 Homeland Security Appropriations bill were approved by the full committee today:

Rep. Carter – The amendment made technical and other non-controversial changes and additions to the report. The amendment was adopted on a voice vote.

Rep. Carter/Rep. Aderholt/Rep. Nunnelee – The amendment restates current law prohibiting federal funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to provide for abortions, except in certain life-threatening cases, rape, and incest. The amendment was adopted on a vote of 25-21.

Rep. Culberson – The amendment prohibits funding for DHS from making reductions in programs, unless the change is enacted into law or unless it complies with existing transfer and reprogramming requirements. The intention of the amendment is to prevent DHS from making program funding changes to comply with the President’s budget request without Congressional approval. The amendment was adopted on a voice vote.

Rep. Owens –The amendment prohibits funding to impose a "border crossing fee," or fund for any study relating to the imposition of such a fee. The amendment was adopted on a voice vote.

Rep. DeLauro (as amended by Rep. Carter) –The amendment adds report language to ensure that that all DHS contracts and subcontracts comply with existing law with respect to wage discrimination and retaliation against all employees. The amendment was adopted on a vote of 26-20.

Rep. Ryan – The amendment prohibits funds for approval of visa petitions filed for or by a citizen of Brazil. The intent of the amendment is to protest the lack of extradition of a Brazilian individual for criminal prosecution. The amendment was adopted on a voice vote.

The FY 2014 Homeland Security Appropriations bill was approved by the full committee on a voice vote.